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Test, Don't Guess: Examining Clinically Feasible Methods for Identifying Quadriceps Weakness After ACL Reconstruction

Test, Don't Guess: Examining Clinically Feasible Methods for Identifying Quadriceps Weakness After ACL Reconstruction

Abstract:
Quadriceps weakness after ACL reconstruction (ACLR) is associated with a greater risk for secondary knee injuries and early onset knee osteoarthritis. Therefore, identifying and treating quadriceps weakness is key to protecting joint health after ACLR. Manual muscle tests are a subjective and easily biased method to assess quadriceps strength. Isokinetic dynamometry, the “gold-standard” method for objectively assessing quadriceps strength is too expensive (~$50,000) for many clinics. Therefore, athletic trainers need to be educated on alternative evidence-based techniques, such as handheld/inline dynamometry and repetition max testing, that they can use to perform objective measures of quadriceps strength during ACLR rehabilitation.

Learning Objectives:

  • Explain the importance of assessing quadriceps strength as an outcome during ACL reconstruction rehabilitation.
  • Analyze the pros and con of the more common and less common methods for assessing quadriceps strength.
  • Examine clinically-feasible and cost-effective methods for objectively assessing quadriceps strength in clinical practice.

Level:
Essential

Domain(s):
Domain 1: Risk Reduction Wellness and Health Literacy 
Domain 4: Therapeutic Intervention 

Orthopedic Domain(s):
Domain 1: Medical Knowledge

Keywords:
Knee; Strength; Dynamometer

CEUs:
1.0 Category A

In order to earn your CEUs, you must watch the session video in its entirety, complete the assessment, and receive a certificate of completion. Your statement of credit, reflecting the total CEUs earned for on-demand sessions, will be uploaded to your NATA EducATe transcript in early November. The maximum CEUs to be awarded are: up to 20 CEUs for On-Demand Only Registrants; and up to 5 CEUs for In-Person Attendees (A statement of credit for 15 in-person CEUs will be issued separately.) CEUs will only be awarded for sessions that have a certificate of completion.


Course Expiration: 
All sessions of the NATA 76th Symposia On-Demand must be completed by October 31, 2025 at 11:59 p.m. CDT.
For full details, refer to the expiration policy on our FAQ page.

John Goetschius, PhD, ATC

Dr. John Goetschius is an Associate Professor in the Health Profession Department and Graduate Athletic Training Program at James Madison University in Harrisonburg, VA. He earned his PhD in Sports Medicine from the University of Virginia and earned his MEd and BS in Athletic Training from the University of Virginia and University of Vermont, respectively. His research focuses on assessing and improving clinical and biomechanical outcomes after lower extremity joint injuries, with a particular interest in outcomes following ACL reconstruction surgery.
This content will not be available until 08/01/2025 at 8:00 AM (CDT)